The 2019 census reported that the population of Sonora, California, was 4,844. Despite its relatively small size, the city serves as the county seat of Tuolumne. The city got its name from the Mexican state of Sonora – it was founded during the Gold Rush by miners from that region. During California’s “gold fever,” Sonora was a busy and booming town. As time passed, the population decreased, but the area’s natural beauty remained.

Many people who live in and visit Sonora enjoy getting around on foot. Pedestrian traffic is increasing all throughout Northern California for several reasons. Some people walk for exercise, others want to limit their time in the car for environmental reasons. The mild weather of our region is also conducive to getting outside and walking or hiking.

Taking a walk in an area near vehicle traffic presents safety risks. Often, motorists are not on the lookout for pedestrians. If a person is hit by a vehicle while walking, they often suffer catastrophic injuries. Please call us if you or a family member has been injured in a vehicle-versus-pedestrian accident. Our experienced Sonora pedestrian accident lawyers can help. Our phone number is (209) 227-1931. We also provide a toll-free line for those calling from other areas of Northern California: (800) 404-5400.

A popular area for walking in Sonora is the Dragoon Gulch Trail. Enjoying a stroll away from busy streets is a nearly foolproof way to avoid the risks associated with walking near vehicle traffic. The woodland trails throughout this nature area are multi-use and span approximately three miles. You can enjoy walking beside a running creek while enjoying mountain and city views.

Unfortunately, avoiding vehicle traffic while on foot is not always possible. We are all pedestrians at one time or another. Walking from your vehicle to the grocery store is a prime example – parking lot accidents are common and one of the top ways pedestrians are injured. Across Northern California and the whole country, pedestrian accidents that cause severe injuries and fatalities have sharply risen in recent years.

Motorists are required to comply with the rules of the road. When a vehicle driver crashes into a pedestrian due to negligence, the consequences can be devastating. Below are some examples of driver carelessness that can cause pedestrian accidents:

• Driver distraction or inattention. A typical example of this is texting while behind the wheel.
• Driving too fast.
• Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Failing to obey traffic signals or stop signs.
• Failing to use turn signals.

The appropriate action following a pedestrian accident will depend upon the extent of the injuries sustained. The police should be alerted to come to the scene and make a report of the incident. Other important things to do at the scene of any injury accident include:

• Take photographs of the scene, the involved vehicle(s), and any visible injuries.
• Get the contact information from the other involved party or parties. The police may do this, but if not, it is essential information to obtain.
• Get the contact information from any independent witnesses. Their statements may become crucial in a legal case.
• Even if you believe you only suffered minor injuries, seek medical attention. Often, the adrenaline from the accident can mask severe symptoms.
• Call an experienced Sonora pedestrian accident lawyer to protect your legal rights.

Seeking counsel from a skilled pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible after a crash is essential. Evidence should be preserved immediately, and witness statements should be obtained before memories begin to fade. A lot of the work to make a solid case against the negligent party needs to be completed shortly after the accident.

For obvious reasons, severe or fatal injuries can occur when a pedestrian is struck by a motor vehicle. Below are common types of injuries in vehicle-versus-pedestrian accidents:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)/concussion/post-concussion syndrome
• Fractured bones
• Ligament damage
• Lacerations
• Broken vertebrae or herniated discs
• Damage to the spinal cord
• Nerve injuries
• Limb amputation
• Full or partial paralysis
• Wrongful death

Consulting with a trusted personal injury law firm after your pedestrian accident can help you obtain essential information about pursuing an insurance claim or a legal case against the negligent motorist. Because injuries are often so severe after a pedestrian crash, medical bills are usually high. The negligent motorist is legally responsible for reimbursing the injured party for their damages, which may include the following:

• Medical bills (those already incurred and for future recommended care)
• Lost income from time missed at work and loss of future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering

Loss of consortium damages to the injured party’s spouse (if applicable) may also be available.

Watch the YouTube video. The Federal Highway Administration puts out a series of pedestrian safety videos called “Safer Journey.” Below is one example.

Being hit by a car can be a terrifying and life-changing ordeal. Your injuries may leave you incapacitated for an extended period, or you may suffer permanent disabilities. When the consequences of an accident are so devastating, it is important to seek trusted legal counsel and, specifically, an attorney with years of experience handling pedestrian injuries or fatalities.

Insurance companies use many tactics to get you to accept less money than your case is worth. When a person is injured, they are more vulnerable to manipulation. Additionally, if the injured person cannot work, financial worries compound by the day, making the idea of a fast settlement appealing. A quick settlement rarely fully compensates the injured party for their damages.

A skilled injury attorney will handle all insurance and legal aspects, allowing your energies to focus on your physical recovery. For compassionate, free, and friendly advice following a vehicle-versus-pedestrian crash, call us at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400.

^{Editor’s Note: 11.9.23 Photo by: Arek Adeoye via Unsplash mm [cs 1018]}